July 31, 2006
Contact: Sue Baker
For Immediate Release
738-2000
RI Monthly readers rate city’s park a doggone good facility
WARWICK– Readers of Rhode Island Monthly magazine have given high marks to the city’s dog park, earning it the 2006 Editors’ Poll pick for best dog park in the state.
In its assessment, the magazine noted 33,000 square feet of dirt and grass, shady spots and fire hydrants among the facility’s assets.
The current park, which officially opened December 13, also features a small “holding area” adjacent to the main park gate, where residents can safely unleash and leash their dogs, as well as several benches and bleachers for pet owners to use while their pooches play.
Mayor Scott Avedisian included in his FY07 budget funding to create an adjacent park for smaller dogs after residents requested that the city consider an additional area for small dogs, which can be overwhelmed by the rough-and-tumble playfulness of their larger canine pals. Construction should begin soon.
Residents who advocated for the dog park’s creation, and others who also now use it, have agreed to regulations similar to those in place in other facilities, among them cleaning up after their own pets, regular cleaning and maintenance of the park and ensuring that no animal be allowed into the facility if it demonstrates rough or aggressive behavior.
Avedisian lauded the work of the city’s Department of Public Works and the Parks and Recreation Division for their efforts in the project.